Multidimensionality of Poverty and Policy Integration: concepts and methodologies for social development

Abstract

A significant part of policies aimed at overcoming poverty consists of fragmented and compensatory actions that are insufficient to promote self-reliance and empowerment of the excluded population groups, considering the structural dimension and the multidimensional nature of poverty in Brazil. In this paper, integrated and sustainable local development is presented as an emancipatory strategy to overcome poverty. It is based on empirical research on the Integrated Program for the Rehabilitation of Degraded Areas, developed by the State Foundation of Metropolitan and Regional Planning in the State of Rio Grande do Sul. The program articulated the social and environmental problems and generated multidimensional impacts, which are qualitatively measured in terms of activities, objectives and skills. The results show that intersectorality and the use of participatory approaches inherent to local development made it possible to activate local potential, strengthen the people's participation as co-manager and articulate policies and programs in the territory.